Election Security Proposal
So I've been charged with researching electronic security requirements and I must say, from a risk management perspective this is unlike anything I've ever come across before.
What is the cost associated with voter fraud significant enough to steal an election? Half the population will be upset, the other half is likely to not only not care, but may actually be in favor of the fraud. Again, what is the cost? Some companies may benefit significantly if the election is swayed in a favorable way, but once the election is certified these gains will (presumably) be legal, so again this cost only harms some organizations while aiding others.
Is the burden of the cost only on those who's agendas stand in opposition the fraud? How many Americans wouldn't mind their candidate winning by fraud? How many would give an honest answer to this?
Considering the amount that a given organization could gain by stealing an election, it makes sense to assume that such an organization would be willing to spend a great deal to that end. Does it then make sense for the already drained local, state, and federal governments to bother spending anything to secure the elections? (An attacker could easily outspend as the gains are greater than the perceived costs.)
It seems we have two choices:
1. Attempt to secure the elections at a tax payer cost of potentially billions of dollars. (And piss off everyone over this expense that creates no improvement in the quality of life of those paying.)
2. Do nothing, spend no money and piss off only about half the population.
I gotta tell ya, if this was a company, I'd be leaning toward #2.
cheers,
catch
PS. Before you pin this on my political beliefs, I am exceptionally liberal.
Re: Election Security Proposal
Quote:
Originally posted here by catch
It seems we have two choices:
1. Attempt to secure the elections at a tax payer cost of potentially billions of dollars. (And piss off everyone over this expense that creates no improvement in the quality of life of those paying.)
2. Do nothing, spend no money and piss off only about half the population.
WTF ? How old is this? Oh well I will reply anyway: Voter Fraud is bad. Why?
Well a Democracy is about what the majority want right?
Not what the rich want.
So without securing the voting systems (or even trying) and leaving it wide open to fraudulent people/company's Democracy is gone.
But I am sure it doesnt matter in the US now anyway. Apparently the voting machines were the least secure devices ever or something... that what .. Berkely said I think it was... so long ago.
But securing the voting systems is hardly going to stop corruption (although its a step)